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COURT OF CLAIMS

Assistance for Victims of Violent Crimes

Through the Illinois Crime Victim's Compensation Act, the Court of Claims administers funding to victims of violent crimes who have inadequate insurance or no source of funds to cover expenses resulting from the crime, including medical bills, counseling, lost wages and other expenses.

To be eligible for assistance:

You must report the crime within 72 hours to law enforcement or seven days for sexual violence, unless unable to do so. You must also cooperate with law enforcement.

You cannot contribute to the injury or death of a person by engaging in wrongful conduct or provocation.

You must complete and file an application within two years of the crime or within one year of the criminal indictment. The application is available to download, or you may receive an application and assistance completing it through the Illinois Attorney General’s office or your local police department.

The following are some of the crimes covered by the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Act.

Domestic violence

Sexual assault and abuse

Murder

Involuntary manslaughter/reckless homicide

Kidnapping

Sexual relations within families

Exploitation of a child

Assault/battery

Reckless conduct

Arson

Driving under the influence

Stalking

There is a $27,000 award cap for uncovered expenses, including:

Medical expenses, hospital, doctor and nursing

Rehabilitation

Counseling, psychiatry for the victim and family

Loss of earnings and/or support which increases up to $1,250 per month beginning January 1, 2013.

Funeral/burial expenses which increases up to $7,500 beginning January 1, 2013.

Crime-scene cleanup, temporary lodging, loss of clothing for evidence

If you are a victim of a violent crime, please contact the Illinois Attorney General’s office at 800-228-3368 for assistance in completing your application. Law enforcement and hospitals can offer assistance. You may also contact the Illinois Court of Claims Clerk’s office in Springfield at 217-782-7101 or in Chicago at 312-814-5010. Help is also available through the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault or the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence.